There has been something in my mind ever since I have been old enough to have memories.
I have noticed that on days when I am extremely tired, sick to the point of my body trying to put itself to sleep to heal, or taking antihistamines, there is a taste in the back of my throat, accompanying my sleepiness. This has nothing at all to do with sinus drainage, as it happens when my sinuses are normal, as well.
Does the body create a chemical that can put a person to sleep, and can it be tasted?
I know that one way the body puts itself to sleep is by the involuntary slowing of the breathing, causing less oxygen to get to the brain. (That's why tired people think everything is funny...it is very similar to being stoned.)
But are there chemicals involved, or is there some other way that the body can create sleepiness?
Posted by Kraid (Member # 6302) on :
Yes, the body does create a chemical to put you to sleep. I think it's dopamine, but I'm probably wrong. I'm not sure if you can taste it. All I know is that sleep sounds REAL good right now Posted by PSI Teleport (Member # 5545) on :
Hi Kraid! (Unless you're a veteran using a new handle, then I take my "Hi" back! )
Ah, is that why being drugged is being "doped"?
Posted by Kraid (Member # 6302) on :
actually I believe that the chemical is called serotonin, not dopamine.
Posted by Kraid (Member # 6302) on :
Hi PSI Teleport
Posted by PSI Teleport (Member # 5545) on :
I thought serotonin was what kept you happy/kept your moods even?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote: Scientists have not yet elucidated the exact neurochemical mechanism by which sleep deprivation leads to mood improvements in depressed patients. The majority of evidence supports involvement of serotonin and dopamine in the mood improving effects of sleep deprivation, although findings are inconsistent for both neurotransmitters.
![[Sleep]](graemlins/sleep.gif)
![[Razz]](tongue.gif)
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